There might come a time when you will notice swollen, spidery veins on your lower limbs. They might cause a concern because you might be suffering from varicose veins. Varicose veins can cause a long term problem because of the irregular blood supply to the heart. But there is no problem as yoga can help you to cure this problem. If you are short on time which means that varicose veins problem has developed, then the only way would be via varicose veins surgery.
Varicose veins
If you sit for long hours or walk in high heels or if you are obese, then you might be prone to varicose veins. The affected veins are swollen, large which are clearly visible under your discolored veins. They will look like a bruise and it can be painful too. Varicose veins are common among women who are pregnant. Basically, the walls of our blood vessels comprises of smooth muscles and tissues which are connected. The blood vessels pump blood to each part of our body which include limbs. In our legs, veins work against gravity which push the blood back to the heart. This is called the venous pump. Excess blood pools in the veins which causes swelling which leads to varicose veins.
Yoga for varicose veins
Can yoga cure varicose veins? Yoga can help with the pain which is caused by varicose veins. When you suffer from varicose veins, then the ideal pose is leg elevations. This helps with the accumulated lymph and blood to drain in heart. The pressure is also eased. Yoga is able to prevent the worsening of the condition.
Here are the yoga poses which help with varicose veins
- Tadasana
This is one of the simple yoga pose to do and it helps you to achieve a good body alignment. As you will practice it, it will keep your legs toned. It will also strengthen the thighs, ankles and ankles. All your muscles work together to maintain the posture, the stress in your limbs is released, which alleviates the pressure. You will have to stand erect by placing your feet apart. Allow your hands to hang alongside the body. Firm your thigh muscles, but do not harden the lower part of the abdomen. Strengthen the inner arches of the ankles and feel the energy pass from your feet, coming up all the way to your head. You should look up and breathe.
- Uttanasana
This yoga pose helps with the circulation of blood throughout the body. It gives your legs a stretch, basically in thighs and calves which are the spots for varicose veins. If you regularly do this asana this will reduce the pain in legs. Stand straight and place your hands on the hips. Inhale and then bend your hips as you exhale. Your hands must be placed on the floor beside your feet. The feet should be parallel to each other. Now, push your torso forward as you extend the stretch and tailbone.
- Navasana
When you do this asana, your legs will be elevated. This makes the pools of blood move upwards. The pressure on the veins is instantly reduced. The few seconds of suspension will build strength and it allows you to fight the pain. Sit in dandasana position, lift your legs off the ground. When you are about to manage balance, lift your hands off the floor and stretch them out in front of you. Try to create a ‘V’ with your upper and lower body. Breathe deeply and release.
- Viparita Karani
This yoga pose is relaxing for your legs. If you have fatigued legs you will get benefit from this a lot. This will enhance blood circulation and flushes out the toxins. When the stress in legs is released, the pressure is reduced. This helps with the varicose veins problem. Sit across a wall and raise your legs up the wall. Lie down and stretch your arms to the sides, do make sure that your palms are facing upwards. When you get comfortable, close your eyes and breathe.
- Matsyasana
The matsyasana is one of the good yoga poses for varicose veins treatment. It works on various systems collectively. This will stretch your legs and feet and it also relieves stress. Your legs are relaxed and the blood flow throughout the body is regulated. Lie on your back and cross your legs in Padmasana. You could also keep your legs stretched out while practicing the pose. Now curve your back such that your head rests. Feel the curve in upper neck and back.
So, these are the five yoga poses for varicose veins. These yoga poses will help you with the problem of varicose veins. Try them but after consulting your doctor. As doing them without any proper attention can make matters worse.
Dr. Pankaj Sareen
Specialist in Laser Proctology(Piles, Fissure and Fistula) and Varicose Veins
